`Assam can become topmost coconut producer in the country`

Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi asserted that the state could become topmost coconut producer if the Coconut Development Board extends all possible help as there is lot of scope for its development.

"Coconut is truly a wonderful plant which provides health, wealth, food, shelter and also livelihood to millions of people all over the world," Gogoi said while inaugurating the World Coconut Day function at NEDFi Convention Centre here today. The coconut and rubber plantations in the state could go a long way in boosting the rural economy as there was a lot of scope for increasing its productivity with better management, he said. Gogoi emphasised the need for adopting latest technology and know-how to increase productivity and urged coconut farmers to go in for value additions to supplement their income. Chairman of Coconut Development Board T K Jose said it was for the first time that the Board had decided to shift focus from the southern states to the north eastern region by holding the World Coconut Day function here. Jose pointed out that Assam was in the forefront as far as productivity was concerned leaving Kerala far behind but there was need for scientific cultivation of coconut here. He assured the board would provide technical support, quality seedlings and adequate funds to boost productivity. The Chief Minister gave away national awards to 15 persons for achieving excellence in coconut farming, industry and other coconut related activities. PTI